If you love the fresh brightness of strawberries paired with the earthy elegance of matcha, you are going to adore this Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe. This delightful no-bake dessert combines a crisp graham cracker crust with luscious layers of creamy matcha-infused whipped cream and sweet, juicy strawberry cream for a treat that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re planning a summer get-together or simply want to indulge in something light and refreshing, these bars offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, accessible ingredients, each playing a key role in bringing out the flavors and textures that make these bars so special. From the crunchy base to the silky creams, every component counts.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Provide a sweet, buttery foundation with just the right amount of crunch.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the earthiness of the matcha and tartness of the strawberries.
- Unsalted butter (melted): Binds the crust ingredients together and adds richness.
- White chocolate chips (melted and cooled): Infuses the cream layers with a subtle sweetness and smooth texture.
- Heavy cream (chilled): Whipped to soft peaks, it creates the light, airy texture that makes these bars so dreamy.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream without any graininess.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cream flavors.
- Matcha green tea powder: The star ingredient that brings a vibrant color and a slightly grassy, rich taste.
- Fresh strawberries (finely chopped): Bring juicy bursts of fruity flavor into the creamy layer.
- Extra strawberries for garnish (optional): Perfect for adding a fresh, pretty finish to each bar.
How to Make Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later. Mix the graham cracker crumbs with granulated sugar and melted butter until everything is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly at the bottom of your pan to form a compact crust, then pop it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the creamy layers. This firm base gives your bars that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth creams.
Step 2: Whip the Cream
In a large bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. The key here is to get a light yet stable whipped cream that will hold its shape. Once whipped, gently fold in the cooled melted white chocolate to add a silky texture and subtle sweetness that elevates the entire dessert.
Step 3: Divide and Flavor the Cream
Now comes the fun part: splitting your cream mixture in two. Fold the matcha powder into one half, stirring carefully until the green color is uniform and the flavor is integrated, creating a beautifully vibrant layer. To the other half, fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries, making sure the fruit is evenly distributed for juicy pops throughout the cream.
Step 4: Layer the Bars
Remove your crust from the fridge and spread the matcha cream layer evenly over it. Next, gently spread the strawberry cream layer on top. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, making your bars look as inviting as possible. This layering is what gives the bars their gorgeous visual effect and delightful contrast in flavors.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the bars are firm enough to cut cleanly. This chilling time lets the flavors meld and the layers set perfectly. Once firm, slice into nine bars and, if you like, garnish with extra strawberries for an elegant touch.
How to Serve Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh strawberry slices or a light dusting of matcha powder add a visual pop and hint at the flavors inside. For an extra indulgent touch, a drizzle of melted white chocolate or a few fresh mint leaves can brighten the presentation.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of green tea or a light floral tea to complement the matcha flavor. For a more decadent experience, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to echo the creamy texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bars on a wooden board with a scattering of fresh strawberries and edible flowers for a festive look. Alternatively, you can cut smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a dessert platter for parties, turning these into little sweet treasures that everyone can enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars covered tightly in the refrigerator. Stored properly in an airtight container, they will stay fresh and creamy for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or dessert on the go.
Freezing
If you want to prepare well in advance, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to a month without losing their flavor or texture.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake, cream-based dessert, reheating isn’t necessary and is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen bars to thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cookie crumb for the crust?
Absolutely! While graham cracker crumbs provide a classic flavor and texture, you can substitute with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even Oreo crumbs for a fun twist. Just keep the sugar amount similar to balance the sweetness.
What if I don’t have matcha powder? Any substitutes?
Matcha powder is unique in both flavor and color, but if you don’t have any on hand, you could try using a teaspoon of green tea powder or even a mild green food powder. Be aware the flavor won’t be quite the same, and the vibrant green color may be less intense.
Can I make these bars dairy-free?
You can try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free butter alternative for the crust. However, keep in mind the texture and flavor might differ slightly from the original, but it will still be delicious!
Is it okay to use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe because frozen berries can release excess moisture and potentially make the cream watery. If you must use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before folding them into the cream.
How long do these bars last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, these bars stay fresh and enjoyable for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the texture might start to change, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner for the perfect experience.
Final Thoughts
Giving this Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe a try will add a touch of elegance and delight to your dessert lineup like no other. The harmonious blend of fresh strawberries and earthy matcha wrapped in creamy layers atop a buttery crust is truly irresistible. Once you make these bars, they’ll quickly become your go-to no-bake dessert that impresses every time. Grab your ingredients and start whipping up this deliciousness today — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Matcha Strawberry Cream Bars are a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust topped with luscious layers of matcha-infused cream and fresh strawberry cream. Perfect for summer, these bars combine the earthy flavor of green tea with the sweet freshness of strawberries, creating a refreshing and visually stunning treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted and cooled
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped
- Extra strawberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the mixture is evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a compact crust. Chill in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
- Whip the cream: In a large bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream together with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form, creating a light and airy base for the filling.
- Incorporate white chocolate: Gently fold the cooled melted white chocolate into the whipped cream mixture, being careful to mix evenly without deflating the cream.
- Divide and flavor the cream: Separate the cream mixture into two equal parts. Into one half, fold in the matcha green tea powder until fully incorporated, creating the matcha cream layer. Into the other half, fold in the finely chopped strawberries to form the strawberry cream layer.
- Assemble the bars: Evenly spread the matcha cream layer over the chilled graham cracker crust. Next, gently spread the strawberry cream layer on top of the matcha layer, smoothing the surface for an even finish.
- Chill until firm: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 4 hours or until the filling is set and firm enough to slice.
- Serve: Once chilled, cut into 9 bars. Garnish each bar with extra fresh strawberries if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a stronger matcha flavor, increase the matcha powder to 1 tablespoon.
- Ensure the white chocolate is completely cooled before folding it into the cream to prevent the cream from curdling or melting.
